Jammu and Kashmir is the second largest producer of wool in India which produces nearly 70 lakh Kgs of wool per annum. The union territory’s major woolen hub, Government Woolen mills Bemina, was badly damaged during the devastating floods of 2014. In a bid to revamp the functioning of the factory, a project has been undertaken by World Bank funded Jhelum Tawi Flood Recovery Project which included the rehabilitation of the mill, as well as the providing of the latest textile weaving equipment to enhance the production of wool manufactured at the factory.As part of the constructive policy, the Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha few days ago inaugurated the Showroom cum Interpretation Centre at Government Woolen Mill, Bemina. As part of the first phase of the project, Showroom cum Interpretation Centre was completed at a cost of Rs 4.25 crores. The second phase of the project aims at upgradation of machinery and ancillary work – which is scheduled to be completed by August 2011 costing around Rs. 4 crores. The new centre will provide a direct Market for 80,000 Kgs of locally produced wool annually, thus benefitting 1600 sheep rearing families while ensuring quality product range. The reformative policies of the UT Government is providing economic growth opportunities to around 50,000 families associated with sheep rearing in J&K. Furthermore the policy proposes to increase the annual fabric production from locally procured wool by 1,60,000 meters. Despite the measures, there is a long road yet to be covered in realizing the full potential of the woolen industry in the former state. If the revamping policy proceeds forward, with continuous efforts to increase the production capacity and find market across the country and abroad, the industry can prove a boon for the economy of the union territory and will result in creation of jobs as well. The restoration has already begun for now, which must be appreciated.
Editorial: Towards revival of Woolen Industry
